Stories written in stone: Langdale axes in early Neolithic Cumbria and beyond

Thesis

The study explores the characteristics of Group VI Langdale axes and the Cumbrian landscapes where they were found. A range of research approaches has been used, including direct examination, digital analyses and experiential methods, with results integrated to build a well-rounded picture of the axes and their landscapes. These findings have been compared with the characteristics and depositions of Group VI examples found in Yorkshire and eastern England.

Firstly, the dataset of known Group VI artefacts in Cumbria has been increased by recording axes hidden away in museum storerooms and by a local publicity campaign to bring out axes in private ownership. All examples, catalogued or not, have been photographed and examined, to build a detailed dataset of visual, metrical and descriptive information. Then the shapes and sizes of Group VI artefacts have been analysed using hands-on and digital techniques, to refresh and update typological classifications. Group VI chaînes opératoires have been unpicked by close observation of the artefacts, following a complex and variable set of pathways from quarrying to final deposition. Lastly, landscapes of deposition have been explored experientially and by digital modelling, with distributions of Group VI artefacts contextualised within natural features and Early Neolithic archaeology.

Clear distinctions have emerged between Group VI artefacts of differing manufacturing stages or classes, in how they were made, used, deposited and perceived by Early Neolithic people. Roughouts are shown to have been tools, as well as the first stages of shaping in making polished axes. A new class of very large and finely flaked axes has been recognised, crafted like the well-known polished ‘prestige’ examples but with an exquisite, flaked finish. Most other polished axes are shown to have been used as tools, although to greatly varying degrees and with distinct differences between typological classes. Post-use modifications have been identified, including a final resharpening of tool blades, deliberate breaking, taking flakes from polished axes and transforming surface colours and textures. Some axes are shown to have multiple modifications, interspersed with periods of deposition in the landscape.

Similar transformations are seen in Group VI axes, flakes and fragments left on the Yorkshire Wolds or in the ditches of causewayed enclosures in eastern England. An updated timeline has been pieced together, suggesting that Group VI artefacts may have travelled surprisingly quickly from north-west England to the eastern side of the country. This finding has implications for how these enigmatic objects may have been moved from their source area.

Authors: Taylor, S

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-4jjgqqx2x
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: Neolithic axe typological classification; early Neolithic mobility; landscape distribution of axes; Neolithic axe chaîne opératoire; Neolithic Langdale (Group VI) axes; depositional contexts of axes
• Subjects: Archaeology; Prehistoric peoples; Ground stone implements